A non-governmental organization, High-Level Women Advocates (HILWA) in Katsina has decried the increase of violence against women and Girls despite the role played during the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, the NGO consequently admonished to give women equal opportunities for demonstrating their skills, knowledge and Networks to effectively lead in COVID-19 response and recovery effort.
While speaking at a press conference in commemoration of the World International Women’s Day, the Chairperson of HILWA, Hajiya Mariya Abdullahi, said the call became necessary considering how women bring different experiences, perspectives and skills to the table and make irreplaceable contributions to decisions, policies and laws that work better for all.
“Women have stood at the front line of the COVID-19 crisis in different areas of life and as some of the most exemplary and effective national leaders in combating pandemic.”
“Despite all the efforts and contributions, women suffer from persistent pre-existing social and systematic barriers to participation and leadership such as frequent cases of rape, banditry, poverty and other forms of violence” she added
The HILWA chairperson explained that this year’s (2021) UN theme is “Women in Leadership: ” Achieving an equal future in a COVID-19 world” highlighting the impact that girls and women worldwide make as healthcare workers, caregivers, innovations and community organizers during COVID-19 pandemic.
